24+ Quick Acts of Kindness

Not all acts of kindness require planning. In fact, people all over the world are spreading kindness right now

Be watchful for everyday moments when a little kindness can make a big difference. Ask your children:

How would we know if someone was having a bad day and may need a little extra kindness?

What are some safe and simple ways to share kindness with a stranger?

15 Acts of Targeted Compassion

Write a letter to someone you know who could use some extra attention. A real letter. With paper!

Did you use something that made you happy today? Write a thank you for it, either to the person who gave it to you, or to the manufacturer.

Offer to pick up groceries for your neighbor.

Say I love you to someone you love.

Hold the door open for someone.

Help someone with a stroller get up the stairs.

Spend quality time with your pet.

Bring flowers to someone you know who is having a tough day.

Write a note of encouragement and support for new parents.

If someone did a great job for you, write a note to that person’s boss thanking them and commending the good job.

Ask someone “how are you doing” and really listen. Sit down. No multitasking.

Draw a picture for someone you love, especially if you notice they have had a bad day.

Give awards to people who do kind things for you. Give your award a name and make a few awards ahead of time (get inspiration for medals like the Caldecott medal, an Olympic medal, or a Nobel prize). Keep them with you and hand them out as a fun way of saying thank you. Visit the link above for a free printable to make this easier.

Keep a “kindness” book in your bag, backpack or purse. Pull it out to read and discuss with your child. See resources for suggestions.

Keep ingredients for an on-the-go service project in your bag. It might be a few paper lunch bags (along with crayons and stickers) to decorate for Meals on Wheels, or some blank cards and decorating supplies to create a card of thanks or gratitude.

If you live in a city where people hold signs saying they need money, you could make “care kits” to hand out. Simply fill resealable plastic bags with clean socks, a granola bar or other snacks, lip balm, hygiene items and perhaps gloves or sunscreen, depending on the weather.